What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
praying
Example
I like to pray before going to bed. [pray: verb]
Example
The congregation gathered to pray for peace and healing. [pray: verb]
invocation
Example
The priest gave an invocation at the beginning of the ceremony. [invocation: noun]
Example
The speaker ended the event with a closing invocation. [invocation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Praying is more commonly used than invocation in everyday language. Praying is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while invocation is more specific and formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between praying and invocation?
Invocation is typically associated with formal and ceremonial settings, such as religious services or public events. In contrast, praying can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and the speaker's intention.